John Calvin Commentary Matthew 3:8

"Bring forth therefore fruit worthy of repentance:" — Matthew 3:8 (ASV)

Matthew 3:8; Luke 3:8. Yield therefore fruits worthy of repentance. He confirms what I have already said: that the repentance which is attested by words is of no value unless it is proved by conduct: for it is too important a matter to be estimated lightly or at random.

And so John affirms that the solemn declaration they made is not enough, but that, over time, their works will make it evident whether or not they have seriously repented.²⁶⁶

It should be observed that good works (Titus 3:8) are here called fruits of repentance: for repentance is an inward matter, which resides in the heart and soul, but afterwards yields its fruits in a change of life.²⁶⁷

But as this entire part of doctrine has been grievously corrupted by Popery, we must attend to this distinction: that repentance is an inward renewal of the man, which manifests itself in the outward life, as a tree produces its fruit.

²⁶⁶ “Si leur repentance est vraye, et si c'est it bon escient qu'ils vienent k luy.” — “If their repentance is true, and if it is in good earnest that they come to him.”.” — “If their repentance is true, and if it is in good earnest that they come to him.”

²⁶⁷ “Par le changement et amendement de vie;” — “by the change and amendment of life.”;” — “by the change and amendment of life.”